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Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip make any table sparkle with color and freshness so they are perfect when you want something both easy and impressive. I love that I can prepare these in advance and bring them to picnics or parties where they disappear in a flash. The yogurt dip takes only seconds but turns the whole plate into a treat.
I first made these for my niece’s birthday and since then they have become our go to party platter. The colors brighten up even the grayest day and everyone always asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Strawberries: Pick the ripest red berries for sweetness and vibrant color
- Pineapple chunks: Look for golden pineapple that smells sweet for the best flavor
- Green grapes: Firm grapes hold their shape best and add bright green to the skewer
- Blueberries: Choose fresh blueberries with a deep blue color for juiciness
- Cantaloupe or orange melon: Use ripe melon that feels heavy for its size and has a fragrant aroma for sweet orange color
- Kiwi: Pick kiwis that give slightly to gentle pressure and have fuzzy skins for the perfect green layer
- Red grapes: These bring a rich juicy note and finish the rainbow
- Wooden or bamboo skewers: Soak briefly in water if not serving right away to prevent splintering
- Greek yogurt: Use thick full fat yogurt for creaminess and tang
- Honey: Select mild floral honey for a lovely sweetness
- Fresh lemon juice: Gives brightness and balances the dip
- Vanilla extract: A few drops bring warm flavor and aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Wash every fruit thoroughly and pat completely dry so the pieces do not slip on the skewer. Slice strawberries and melon into chunks about the same size as your grapes. Peel and slice kiwi into half moons. Set all fruit on a board in groups for easy assembly.
- Thread the Skewers:
- Take a wooden skewer and gently press on one piece of strawberry. Follow with a chunk of cantaloupe then pineapple kiwi slice green grape blueberry and finally red grape. Push the fruit close together but do not pack tightly to avoid bruising. Repeat until all skewers are full.
- Make the Yogurt Dip:
- In a mixing bowl add plain Greek yogurt honey fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract. Stir steadily with a spoon until the mixture looks glossy and smooth. Taste and add a touch more honey or lemon if you like it sweeter or brighter.
- Arrange and Serve:
- Place finished fruit skewers on a serving platter so the colors form a rainbow arc. Spoon the creamy yogurt dip into a bowl and set in the center. If serving later wrap the platter and chill for up to two hours.
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My favorite part is threading the skewers with my kids who love picking the color order. Watching everyone dive in and grab their favorites reminds me of summer backyard parties with my cousins when we all tried to make the longest fruit skewer possible.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers tightly wrapped with plastic or in an airtight container in the fridge. The fruit remains fresh for a day and the dip stays good for two days. Lay the skewers in a single layer to avoid bruising and stick the bowl of dip nearby for easy snacking later. Chilling the dip before serving makes it extra refreshing.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use coconut yogurt and maple syrup or agave instead of Greek yogurt and honey for a vegan friendly version. Any combination of colorful fresh fruit will work. Raspberries mango blackberries or apple chunks all fit right in. If avoiding dairy check the yogurt’s ingredients for hidden milk products.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve as a brunch centerpiece or dessert for a summer dinner. These fruit skewers pair well with sparkling water a cold cider or even a glass of Prosecco for adults. For small kids try shorter skewers or serve fruit pieces in cups with a spoonful of dip.
Cultural or Historical Context
Fruit skewers have roots in many cultures from Mediterranean kebab platters to tropical fruit platters at Hawaiian luaus. Combining fruit with a tangy yogurt dip is common across Europe and the Middle East where yogurt is a staple snack. The rainbow arrangement celebrates modern love for color and variety at the table.
Common Questions
- → What fruits work best for rainbow skewers?
Colorful fruits like strawberries, pineapple, grapes, blueberries, kiwi, and melon create an appealing rainbow effect. You can also include mango, raspberries, or blackberries to vary the colors and flavors.
- → Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, it's easy to assemble both the fruit skewers and yogurt dip in advance. For best freshness, chill until serving and cover tightly.
- → Is there a dairy-free or vegan option for the dip?
Absolutely! Substitute plant-based yogurt like coconut yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan version.
- → How do I keep the fruit from browning?
Use fresh fruit and assemble close to serving time. A splash of lemon juice over the cut fruit can help preserve color and freshness.
- → What drinks pair well with these skewers?
Chilled sparkling water or a light white wine complement the fruity sweetness perfectly. Try fruit-infused water for a non-alcoholic choice.
- → Can kids help make fruit skewers?
Definitely! Kids can safely thread pre-cut fruit onto skewers for a fun, hands-on snack-making activity.